By Nnasom David

A coalition of civil society organisations has advised Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan to pursue formal legal avenues concerning her allegation of harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, rather than relying on public commentary.

At a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, representatives of the Independent Public Service and Accountability Watch (IPSAW) and the Transparency Advocacy for Development Initiative (TADI) said the matter should be handled through the proper institutional frameworks to ensure fairness and justice.

“This is not how democracy works and not how justice is pursued,” said Comrade Adeniran Taiwo Olugbenga, who was joined by Comrade Stephen Eriba. They spoke on behalf of a broader coalition including the Allied Civil Society Organisation, Guardians of Democracy and Development, and the Forum of Progressive Youth Leaders.

The groups emphasized the importance of due process, especially in matters involving public office holders. They urged restraint in media commentary and emphasized the need to preserve the integrity of legal and democratic institutions.

“The burden of proof is a civic duty that should be discharged in court,” the coalition stated. “Handling sensitive issues through media narratives could potentially discourage genuine survivors from coming forward and may also affect public confidence in due process.”

The coalition added that the broader struggle for gender equity and justice should not be overshadowed by approaches that bypass institutional procedures. “Advocacy for women’s rights should support systems that ensure accountability, transparency, and fairness,” the statement said.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan first made the harassment allegation in March during Senate proceedings. The Senate President, through his aides, has denied the allegation. No formal legal filing has been made public as of the time of this report.

The groups concluded by encouraging all parties involved to seek resolution through lawful and constructive means.